How to Change Windows Vista Icons

Icons provide a visual indicator of file types and program shortcuts. There are standard icons that come with the Windows operating system, but there are several websites that offer free images to use as desktop icons in Windows Vista. Look around and find something that you like. Download the image to your computer, saving it in an area that will be easy to find later on, such as My Pictures.

Program icons

Step 1

Right-click on an empty space on your desktop. This will open a context menu.

Step 2

Select “Personalize” from the menu.

Step 3

Click “Change desktop icons."

Step 4

Select the icon that you want to change.

Step 5

Click the “Change icon” button. This will open a dialogue box and allow you to locate the image you want to use as your icon. Click on the file to highlight it. Click “Open” and choose “OK.”

Folder icons

Step 1

Right-click on the folder for which you want to change the icon.

Step 2

Select “Properties."

Step 3

Click on the “Customize” tab.

Step 4

Select the “Change icon” button.

Step 5

Click on "Browse" to locate the graphic file you want to use. Select it and click the "Open" button.

References

• Vista Themes: How To Change The Icons In Windows Vista

About the Author

Writing since 1999, Darla Ferrara is an award-winning author who specializes in health, diet, fitness and computer technology. She has been published in "Mezzo Magazine" and Diet Spotlight, as well as various online magazines. Ferrara studied biology and emergency medical technology at the University of Nebraska and Southeast Community College.

Photo Credits

• Medioimages/Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images